Vol76 no2 2015

March 2015 VOL. 76, NO. 2

Executive Director

Legislation Aims to Cripple Conservation

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egislation aimed at drastically altering the composition, authority and funding of the Missouri Department of Conservation is currently working its way through our General Assembly. In order to protect the forest, fish and wildlife resources millions of Missourians cherish, a strong, citizen led effort must ensue to educate our elected officials on the importance of conservation to the State of Missouri.

If you and your family find pleasure in the natural

resources and outdoor heritage of Missouri, then there has never been a more important time for you to become involved in conservation advocacy. It’s likely hard for you to believe, but there are people in this state who hope to end the Missouri Model of Conservation, which is rooted in citizen led, science-based decision making.

The Conservation Federation of Missouri is working to ensure wildlife and wild places will exist for our children’s children to enjoy and appreciate, but we need your help.

This list of legislation should be a wake-up call to every conservationist in Missouri. We hope you will join us in our opposition to legislation aimed at altering the conservation of forest, fish and wildlife in Missouri.

SJR 1 - Modifies the membership composition and terms of service of the commissioners of the Conservation Commission. *would regionalize and politicize the Conservation Commission

SB 56 - Modifies hunting, fishing and trapping permit fees for Missouri residents. *would eliminate an estimated $40 million annually from MDC

SB 178 - Modifies provisions relating to captive cervids. *would classify captive deer as livestock SB 337/HB 763 - Prohibits the Conservation Commission and the Department of Conservation from engaging in prohibited conduct with a connected not-for-profit corporation. *would end countless conservation programs with not-for-profit public charities that partner with MDC

HJR 27 - Proposes a constitutional amendment reducing the sales tax from 1/8 of a cent to 1/16 of a cent. *would eliminate an estimated $55 million annually from MDC

HJR 28 - Proposes a constitutional amendment requiring the conservation sales tax be approved by voters every 10 years. *would drastically change long-term conservation planning

HJR 39 - Proposes a constitutional amendment to repeal the Conservation Commission’s authority to acquire land. *would end the Department’s ability to acquire public lands for hunting, fishing, trapping, hiking, camping and more.

HB 317 - Requires the Department of Conservation to reimburse automobile owners up to $500 for damages inflicted upon their vehicles by deer. *would cost MDC untold millions HB 710 - Allows non-residents who own property or pay income taxes in Missouri to receive resident hunting and fishing permit privileges. *would cost MDC an untold amount HB 834 - Prohibits state agencies or entities from purchasing or receiving donated land without the approval of the General Assembly. *would give politicians authority over all public land acquisition, while ending your right to donate land without political approval

To stay informed of legislative issues concerning conservation in Missouri, sign-up for CFM Legislative Action Alerts and ask your family and friends to do the same. http://confedmo.org/programs/legislation/action-center/

Citizens built the unique and successful Missouri Model of Conservation, and it’s citizens who must protect it.

Brandon Butler Executive Director, CFM MIS S OURI

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MISSOURI

Wildlife March 2015 Vol. 76, No. 2

Contents 10 Conservation Tension 12 Winter To Spring 17 Dan Vogt of Whitetails Unlimited Wins Field Director of the Year 24 Dr. C.F. Luebbert Honored for Lifetime Achievement in Conservation 25 Spicebush, Swallowtail and Other Yard Swag 26 New Tournament Circuit Set for Missouri High School Anglers 27 Nature Conservancy Protects Prairie Wetland in Western Missouri 30 Cooking in the Outdoors

Officers President Al Vogt 1st Vice President Ron Coleman Gary Van De Velde 2nd Vice President Secretary Nicole Wood Treasurer Randy Washburn

Staff Brandon Butler Rehan Nana Emma Kessinger

Communications Specialist

Micaela Haymaker

Office Manager Membership Director/ Managing Editor Creative Director

Laurie Coleman

34 Passion for the Outdoors 35 Missouri Shooting Teams Receive Grant Funding 38 Missouri B.A.S.S. Nation Spring Fling 39 In Prusuit of MIssouri’s Winter Trout

Executive Director/ Editor Deputy Director

Joe Pendergrass

Mission Statement: Missourians for Conservation of Natural Resources and Protection of Our Outdoor Heritage.

40 Life After CLC - Where Are You Now? Kat Dockery 42 Why I Became a Life Member of CFM

news, updates and columns

Missouri Wildlife is the official publication of the Conservation Federation of Missouri, Affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation.

ISSN 1082-8591

3 From The Stone House 6 President’s Message Agency News – Missouri Department of Conservation 20

MDC to Match $1.3 million in Federal Dollars to Help Missouri Landowners with Key Habitat Conservation

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Missouri Deer-Hunting Season Ends with Harvest of 260,552

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MDC Seeks Public Input on Proposed Deer Hunting Regulation Changes

Department of Natural Resources – 32

The Value of Water and State Water Planning

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Spotlight on Missouri State Parks — Trout Season in Missouri State Parks

Member Information: 5 14 28 4

Business Alliance Members 11 Calendar 21 CFM Affiliates 41

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New Members Honorariums & Memorials Member’s Memories

728 W. Main Jefferson City, MO 65101-1559 Phone • 573-634-2322 Email • lcoleman@confedmo.org Online • www.confedmo.org

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MISSOURI WILDLIFE (USPS 012868) is published bi­ monthly in January, March, May, July, Sept­ember and November for subscribers and members of the Con­ ser­ vation Federation of Missouri, 728 W. Main, Jef­ ferson City, MO 65101-1559. Of each member’s dues ($25 minimum) $10.00 shall be for a year’s subscription to Missouri Wildlife. Periodical postage paid at Jefferson City, MO. and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MISSOURI WILDLIFE, 728 W. Main, Jefferson City, MO 65101-1559 Front Cover: Photo was taken in the morning at Boundary Bay, B.C., where numerous bald eagles gather in the winter months of January and February. Photo credit: Christian Sasse www.sassephoto.com

Thank You! Business Alliance Members Our sincere thanks to all of our Business Alliance members.

Your support of CFM is making a difference for Missouri outdoors!

Platinum

Gold

Bronze

Alps OutdoorZ

Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives

MidwayUSA

James T. Blair IV

Silver

Missouri Petroleum Council

CZ-USA G3 Boats Learfield Communication, Inc.

Missouri Wildflowers Nursery NW Electric Power Cooperative, Inc.

Poke N’ Stoke

Sierra Bullets, LLC

Iron Bass Pro Shops (Independence)

Forrest Keeling Nursery

Pure Air Natives, Inc.

Bee Rock Outdoor Adventures, LLC

General Printing Service

Quality Forest Management, LLC

Black Widow Custom Bows, Inc.

Greenbrier Wetland Services

REMAX Boone Realty

Bob McCosh Chevrolet Buick GMC

Grundy Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Second Creek Deer Blinds

Brown Printing

Hornbuckle Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, Inc.

Shade Tree Service, Inc.

Cap America

Hulett Heating & Air Conditioning

Shady Lane Cabins & Motel

Citizens Telephone Company

Hunting Works for Missouri

Shafer, Kline & Warren, Inc.

Columbia Daily Tribune

Lewis County Rural Electric Cooperative

Tabor Plastics Company

Commerce Bank

Logboat Brewing Company

The Bank of Missouri

Consolidated Electric Cooperative

McRoberts Farm, Inc.

United Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Dickerson Park Zoo

Meramec Bison Farm, LLC

White River Valley Electric Coop., Inc.

Farmer’s Co-op Elevator Association

Midwest Mailing Services

Fast Yeti

Missouri Conservation Pioneers

To learn more about how your business can benefit from supporting conservation call Rehan Nana at the CFM office, 573-634-2322.

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president’s message

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CFM Convention March 20-22, 2015 - A Grand Opportunity

ne time each year the Conservation Federation of Missouri gives citizens an opportunity to engage in conservation in a very unique way - to participate as citizens in both working to advocate and promote conservation in Missouri and in celebrating conservation achievements.

CFM’s Convention is designed to mix important business with delightful pleasure.

Resolutions to address the myriad of conservation issues are prepared. Fourteen resource committees meet to discuss issues in their respective interest areas and develop resolutions.

Proposed resolutions that are accepted by the General Assembly, are presented to appropriate conservation related

organizations for action soon after the convention.

CFM’s process of resolution development at the convention empowers citizens to influence conservation policies in Missouri and to use CFM as a way to speak for conservation. CFM’s Board of Directors meets to consider proposed strategic approaches and projects that will best serve conservation and to approve associated budgets.

Convention attendees have an opportunity to enjoy interacting with conservation-minded

folks with diverse interests in social settings.

Conservationists of all types will be there including CFM members; conservation professionals; student members of the Conservation Leadership Corps; and representatives from many of CFM’s affiliates and partners.

Conservationists always enjoy this annual opportunity to come together to focus on conservation successes as well as challenges.

Individuals and groups are recognized at the annual awards ceremony and students receiving

CFM scholarships are introduced. On Saturday evening all enjoy a wonderful banquet, music and live and silent auctions of donated items to support CFM programs.

Visit the CFM website for a detailed schedule of convention events.

You and your family can easily register to attend the convention with the form found within this magazine. Bring other conservation-minded acquaintances with you who will become CFM members when they register to attend. The event is a great way to catch up with old friends and meet new conservationists who share your same passion and interests. This is sure to be a rewarding experience as well as a real hoot. If this becomes your and your families first CFM convention I would expect we will see you again next year.

Whether you are a hunter, angler, camper, hiker, bird watcher or anything in between we invite you to come see what the Conservation Federation of Missouri is all about.

Yours in Conservation.

Al Vogt President, CFM

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Come Home To Conservation 79th CFM Annual Convention - REGISTER NOW! Capitol Plaza Hotel ~ Jefferson City, MO

CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS

Annual Conservation Awards Ceremony Natural Resource Committee Reports Banquet

Meet Conservation & Natural Resource Leaders Affiliates Luncheon Silent & Live Auctions

CONVENTION-AT-A-GLANCE SUNDAY, MARCH 22

SATURDAY, MARCH 21

FRIDAY, MARCH 20 2:00 - 5:00 pm

Registration Open

7:00 - 8:00 am

Breakfast (on your own)

5:00 - 6:30 pm

Dinner Break (on your own)

7:30 - 5:00 pm

Registration Open

6:30 - 7:30 pm

Social Hour

8:00 - 8:45 am

Keynote Session

7:30 - 9:30 pm

Annual Conservation Awards Ceremony

9:00 - 12:30 pm

Resource Committee Meetings

12:30 - 2:00 pm

Lunch Break (on your own)

12:30 - 2:00 pm

Board Members & Affiliate Leaders Luncheon

2:00 - 4:00 pm

Resolution Committee Meeting

5:00 - 6:30 pm

Social & Silent Auction

6:30 - 8:00 pm

Banquet

8:00 - 9:30 pm

Live Auction

7:00 - 8:00 am

Breakfast (on your own)

8:00 - 10:00 am

General Assembly

Immediately Following General Assembly

CFM Board & Business Meeting

Subject to change

Mail Registration To: CFM 728 West Main Street Jefferson City, MO  65101

REGISTRATION FORM (clip & mail) (#1) Member Package - All sessions, Awards Ceremony, Access to exhibits/silent auction. (#2) Non Member Package - All sessions, Awards Ceremony, Access to exhibits/silent auction, One year CFM Membership.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Lodging arrangements must be made directly with the Capitol Plaza Hotel at (573) 635-1234 or (800) 338-8088 Room rates are $88/night for single or double occupancy while room block lasts

* No registration fee for spouses NOT attending meetings * No registration fee for children 18 and under to attend meetings * Banquet fees are separate

First Time Attendee

2015 Awards Ceremony is sponsored by Bass Pro Shops Award Ceremony RSVP ~ Number of Guests _____

Name(s): ______________________________________

Registration Packages

Address: _____________________________________

(#1) Member Pkg ~ $40.00/person

$

_____________________________________________

(#2) Non Member Pkg ~ $60.00/person

$

Telephone: ___________________________________

Banquet ~ $40.00/person:

Email: _______________________________________

Capitol Ribeye Steak

$

Credit Card #: _________________________________

Maple Lacquered Salmon

$

Expiration Date: ________________________________

Pasta Primavera (Vegetarian Option)

$

Signature: _____________________________________

Children Banquet ~ $15.00/person:

Special Needs (i.e. dietary, access, room, handicap): ______________________________________________

Quantity Registration Fee

Chicken Strips and Fries Total Registration:

$

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Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch Historic renovation of the 1919 International Fur Exchange Building, the Thomas Jefferson Building and the American Zinc Building in downtown St. Louis, Missouri.

Drury Hotels is proud to call St. Louis, Missouri home.

In all 130 of our hotels, including 21 in St. Louis, our guests enjoy award-winning friendly service and free amenities: Free Hot Breakfast • Free Hot Food & Cold Beverages at the 5:30 Kickback® • Free Wireless Internet & Long Distance Calls • Microwave & Refrigerator in Every Room • 24-Hour Business & Fitness Centers • Pools with Whirlpools •

Now offering a 10% discount for CFM Members

DruryHotels.com | 1-800-DRURYINN

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Conservation Tension

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s another legislative session begins, once again we see bills filed that could change the way the Department of Conservation operates or how it is structured and funded.

Of course, this is not breaking news. Hardly a year goes by that some legislator doesn’t introduce a bill targeting the Department. The reasons for this special attention by politicians are varied and to a large degree we are witnessing a democratic process fueled by a political tension created by Missouri voters in 1936 and 1976.

Tired of seeing the land, water, and wildlife of Missouri abused and relegated to political whim, voters amended the state constitution in 1936, creating the Conservation Commission and giving the Commission extensive authority. Formation of the Commission was a powerful statement about trust and the failings of politically driven decision-making when it comes to the management of fish and wildlife resources. Indeed, the primary objective for the constitutional amendment as stated by the first Commission was “to protect, as far as legally possible, the administration of the state’s wildlife resources from the influence of partisan politics.”

When Missouri voters decided to dedicate sales tax money to conservation in 1976, another important statement was made about trust and commitment. Voters approved the Commission’s vision for the future expressed in the Design for Conservation plan, believing that legislators would never adequately support these ambitious goals. Voters also tacitly agreed that all citizens, not just hunters and anglers, should carry the burden of cost for managing resources that belong to all citizens.

The actions of 1936 and 1976 are among the most important voter-supported decisions ever made in favor of conservation nationally, and fulfilled a vision first articulated by Aldo Leopold as part of the American Game Policy, adopted in 1930. The Policy described a pathway for conservation success including the need for trained professionals, cooperation between interest groups, the need for multi-disciplinary work, and the importance of adequate funding. The Policy emphasized the need for agencies to have freedom from “political overturns” and influence, enough authority to govern its own work, and that the costs should be carried by everyone because the work of conservation results in “public betterments.”

After all of these years and given that bit of history, you’d think the future of the Commission, its authority, 1 0

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and funding would be relatively secure; however, the impact of legislative term limits, today’s strange political climate, and personal political agendas annually bring forward new reasons to debate the work of conservation, whether they be good or bad.

I can forgive legislators for not knowing or understanding the conservation history of America and Missouri’s role in that history. I can understand the debate about legislative control over Conservation, and I can even understand why some people feel we should re-visit the decisions made by voters so many years ago. Having worked for the Department, there are things I would change immediately if I could; however, the Commission structure, authority, and funding are not anywhere on my list.

Ultimately, the Department is accountable to the citizens of this state. It is the right of the citizenry to challenge the relevance of the Missouri Model of Conservation and to question whether this model serves us well or should be replaced with another. A vote on the Commission’s authority or funding might seem like a reasonable test of the agency’s relevance and public priority; however, the risks are huge and should not to be taken lightly. A public grassroots effort would offer some guarantee that a crises is in the making and a public debate is needed. But a push for change from corners of the legislature for obscure reasons do not offer the same guarantee, and carry motives not in the best interest of fish, forest, and wildlife conservation, or the people of Missouri. Beware of politicians offering solutions to problems that don’t exist.

Dan Zekor

WELCOME C F M N E W members

Paris Amend, West Plains

Stephen Clubine, Windsor

T. Armstrong, Saint Louis

Curt Coonce, Cape Girardeau

Terrance Barber, Saint Louis

Greg Cooper, Monroe City

John & Kathy Blankenbeker, Camdenton

Angela Corson, Warrensburg

Andrew Blunt, Jefferson City Gerry Boehm, O’Fallon

James Covington, Ballwin Mark Cowart, Kearney Dan Dickneite, Mokane

Gary Brehe, Washington

Anthony Elliott, Jacksonville

Yvonne Buchheit, Columbia

Gregory Elliston, Harrisonville

Patricia Chambers, Belle

Betsy Enger, Saint Louis

Joseph Chilton, Pomona

Jerome Evans, Warrensburg

Gerald & Shirley Clary, Springfield

David Gulick, Saint Louis

Rebecca Haefner, Milwaukee, WI

Jeffrey Roth, Saint Mary

Jordon Hargrove, Columbia

Matt Sanford, Columbia

Travis Hargrove, Columbia

Walter Schirr, Warrenton

Charles Harr, Arnold

Gerald Schmidt, Chillicothe

David Hazelrigg, Ash Grove

Marvin Schoenecke, Point Lookout

Kenneth Hefner, Blue Springs

Mark Schwartz, Jefferson City

Todd Henry, Huntsville

Kylie Sellers, Vandalia, IL

Wayne Hoffman, Saint Charles

Jimmy Sexton, Neosho

Bryan Hovorka, Lawson

Robert Sherwood, Saint Louis

Bryan Hurt, Oak Grove

Mark Sides, Saint Louis

Randy James, Warsaw

Brian Skinner, Arnold

Gil Kauffmann, House Springs

Margaret Slayton, Saint Joseph

Bruce Kirk, Bates City

Marion Smith, Saint Louis

Susan Lammert, Saint Louis

Cody Snyder, Novinger

Bill Lewis, Maplewood

Richard Sonner, Lees Summit

Nick Love, Chesterfield

Daniel Stark, Eldon

Michael Lucas, Harrisonville

Caryn Sterling, Fenton

Tyler Mahoney, Lees Summit

Edward Sterling, Fenton

Lawrence Manser, Ridgedale

Thomas Stillman, Saint Louis

Thomas McCrackin, Chesterfield

Bill Sullivan, Fayette

Joseph Micciche, Williamson, NY

Terry Supple, Saint Joseph

Milton Mullinax, Point Lookout

Michael Talley, Lees Summit

Scott Paine, Willard

Darrell Taylor, Camdenton

Gerald Pelzel, Centralia

Ron Throckmorton, Glencoe

William Pfieger, Ashland

Harriet Weger, Jackson

Jon Quarles, Saint Louis

Barbara Wenzelburger, Saint Louis

Benjamin Rassieur, Saint Louis

Susan Williams, Kansas City

Paul Ratliff, Saint Louis

Kenneth Wilson, Warsaw

James Rice, Laquey

John Winkelman, Crystal City

Tim Rieke, Jefferson City

Darin Wood, Saint Louis

Mark Rogers, Saint Louis

Brian Wright, Branson

CFM would like to thank the 310 members that renewed since our last publication.

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Winter To Spring

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inter is a rough time. Cold winds drive up residents here like chick-a-dees and nuthatches,” said heating bills and cabin fever becomes a Brad Jacobs, ornithologist. “We will see different species reality. My father always said, “You endure migrating into this area as spring progresses. Geese and a bad winter to be rewarded by a beautiful swans have already moved into this area and stayed while spring.” This is especially true for wildlife. some pushed on through. But ducks will soon be arriving.

Thankfully March, is the gateway to spring. Let’s take They will move north when open water is present.” a look at how several species survive this roughest part of March is considered the time for short-distance winter and how they will fare this spring: migrants who are generally seedeaters. Robins, field January and part of sparrows and other February makes wildlife species that winter in the survival a challenge. southern United States Larger animals like deer move north, eventually dig through ice and snow passing through our area. with their hooves to find Long-distance migrants meager tidbits. Coyotes, that mainly eat insects foxes and birds of prey start moving in from the are rewarded with small tropics. This might include game that has few places warblers, fly catchers and to hide. Rabbits, rodents orioles. Hummingbirds and quail with the best follow the same pattern. cover and food sources Long distance species probably will make it. will nest in May. They Many will not. They have generally stay in the a low survival percentage northern states two to Soon my friends, soon! Photo credit: Kenneth L. Kieser. and generally a good three months before reproduction rate. Let’s returning south. take a closer look at other species: Great horned owls, bluebirds, red tailed hawks and FISH - Fish survival depends on amounts of oxygen species that build nests inside tree cavities or boxes will that filters through the ice. Snow lying for long periods likely start nesting in late February and March. Some may on a shallow frozen pond is disastrous. Sun penetrating be in open nests, braving the weather. Babies stay under through the ice helps create oxygen that is badly needed their parents for warmth. But an extra layer of fat also for fish survival. Fish in deeper pools have a greater insulates younger birds, especially birds that are eating chance of survival. well.

BOBWHITE QUAIL - Bobwhite quail will change WILD TURKEYS - Wild turkeys fare well in the worst habitat a lot every winter,” said Elsa Gallagher, upland conditions by finding food while digging through snow, wildlife coordinator. “They spend more time near shrubices and mud with their sharp claws. Adult birds provide type cover with bare ground underneath or cornfields quite a fight against most predators with their strong when available. They will likely stay in coveys around wings and sharp spurs. Yet folks who walk through their chosen habitat until April . Then they will split up in woodlots will occasionally find a pile of feathers that pairs to breed.” belonged to the turkey that lost a violent fight.

However, quail pair up early during unseasonably You can still see big flocks of hens and young birds warm March weather. Then they start nesting and may feeding in open row crop fields. Toms occasionally join have an early hatch of chicks. Some biologists claim they them. However, toms always roost in different locations might nest again while others believe breeding is once than hens or young birds. each spring.

Toms and hens will eventually separate into smaller A wet spring is devastating to quail. Nests may be groups for their spring ritual of breeding and then nesting. washed out and young birds catch hypothermia or Most toms are in bachelor groups. This group of four pneumonia. Predators like black snakes, foxes, coyotes or five toms spends a great deal of time establishing or even house cats take their share of baby quail that are dominance or their pecking order. Generally an old long about the size of a bumblebee. bearded gobbler will be the dominant bird that does most OTHER BIRDS - “A certain group are permanent of the breeding.

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Throughout April the toms start gobbling to answer hens clucking, yelping or purring. Toms, in fact, gobble at most loud noises during this sensitive period. They consider themselves kings of the timber in April.

Bred hens go to nests from middle April to the middle of May and toms are left to find other hens or to feed and rest. Soon the chicks will be running around and gobblers return to their bachelor groups for some peace and quiet.

Spring will soon be here!

Kenneth L. Kieser

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CALENDAR MISSOURI FESTIVALS AND AFFILIATE EVENTS

AFFILIATE EVENTS AUDUBON SOCIETY OF MISSOURI MAR 14: Public Field Trip, Return of the Twilight Timberdoodle Trek Forum Nature Area, Songbird Station, Columbia (7:00pm); Kevin Wehner (573) 815-0352 MAR 28: Public Field Trip, Gans Creek Restoration Area, Songbird Station, Columbia (8:00am); Louise Flenner (573) 268-7468 APR 18: Public Field Trip, Prairie Garden Trust, New Bloomfield APR 24: Spring Meeting, Saint Louis BURROUGHS AUDUBON SOCIETY OF GREATER KANSAS CITY MAR 3: Warblers: Fancy Flights of Frustration, Discovery Center Auditorium (6:00pm - 8:30pm) MAR 7: Bird Banding, Fleming Park, Blue Springs (10:00am - 1:00pm) MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUCK HUNTERS ASSOCIATION MAR 6-8: Trout Fishing – Lake Taneycomo MAR 11: Dan Zerr Speaking on Turkey Season MAR 23: Monthly Board Meeting, American Legion, Brentwood (7:30pm) APR 8: Water Safety Program APR 27: Monthly Board Meeting, American Legion, Brentwood (7:30pm) MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF MEAT PROCESSORS MAR 6: 76th Annual Convention and Trade Show APR 17: Quad State Convention MISSOURI DELTA WATERFOWL MAR 28: Trail of Tears Chapter Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Jackson (5:00pm); Danny Hensley (573) 379-6757 APR 22: Central Missouri Chapter Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Columbia (5:00pm); Scott Snow (573) 445-3405 MISSOURI DUCKS UNLIMITED MAR 4: Greater Kansas City Dinner, Boulevard Brewing Company, Kansas City (5:30pm - 9:30pm); Richard Woody (913) 905-2150 or Daniel Lacy (816) 918-1558 MAR 7: Saline County Dinner, Fairgrounds, Marshall (5:30pm - 10:00pm); Jeff Knott (660) 202-3422 MAR 7: Christian County 14th Annual Banquet, Event Center, Nixa (5:30pm - 9:30pm); Scott Lambeth (417) 838-8441 or Jared Doty (417) 766-1826 MAR 7: Mid East Missouri Dinner, Festus (6:00pm - 10:00pm); Jamie or Matt Morgan (636) 797-2275 MAR 13: Saint Peters Dinner, All Occasions, Saint Charles (5:30pm - 9:00pm); Don Molitor (636) 970-1114

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MAR 14: Lees Summit - Glenn D. Chambers Dinner, Lakewood Oaks Golf Course Club House, Lees Summit (5:00pm - 9:00pm); Tony Berter (816) 7638282, Shelly Hornbuckle (816) 462-3198 or Glenn Chambers (573) 445-9773 MAR 14: River Bend Annual Sportsman’s Dinner, Eagles Lodge, New Madrid (6:00pm - 10:00pm); Jonathan Riggs (573) 748-0890 MAR 14: Platte City Dinner, Fairgrounds (6:00pm 9:30pm); Eric Greenwell (816) 532-3202 MAR 21: Tri Lakes - Branson Annual Banquet, Big Cedar Lodge, Branson (5:30pm - 9:30pm); Matt Hogenson (417) 331-0203, Ryan Zeller (417) 3354835 or Ryan Sifford (417) 294-5040 MAR 21: Missouri State Convention, Stoney Creek Inn, Columbia (6:00pm - 10:00pm); Sharon Koch (314) 707-4993, Ginny Zinck (660) 460-0031 or Todd Carlton (573) 893-7449 MAR 28: Saint Joseph Dinner, Moila Country Club, Saint Joseph (5:30pm - 9:30pm); Tyce VanMater (816) 262-7678 or Chris Thompson (816) 383-2410 MAR 28: Lake Stockton Dinner, Zumwalt Expo Center (5:30pm - 10:00pm); Mike & Jan Grady (785) 691-8491 MAR 28: Troy Dinner, Lincoln County Fairgrounds, Troy (5:00pm - 10:00pm); Shane Creasy (636) 322-9747 APR 11: Grand Rivers Sponsor Event, Knights of Columbus Hall, Chillicothe (5:30pm - 8:30pm); David Hamilton (660) 247-0825, Allen Jeffries (660) 247-0705 or Tim Reger (660) 247-5596 APR 11: Bluff City Mallards Annual Sportsman’s Dinner, Black River Coliseum, Poplar Bluff (6:00pm - 10:00pm); Grant Collins (573) 718-9737 or Eric Blaich (573) 776-4313 APR 18: Saint Louis - Mid County Dinner, Elks Lodge, Saint Louis (5:30pm - 10:00pm); Sam Kopsic (314) 229-5138 or Joe Kopsic (314) 255-7366 APR 18: Monroe City Dinner, Knights of Columbus Hall, Monroe City (5:30pm - 9:30pm); Todd Carlton (573) 415-6697 or David Willis (573) 248-6711 APR 24: John R. Belz Tribute Dinner, Palladium Event Center, Saint Louis (5:30pm - 9:00pm); Todd Carlton (573) 415-6697, Hank Belz (314) 791-1131 or Mike Checkett (901) 277-9118 MISSOURI HUNTER EDUCATION INSTRUCTOR’S ASSOCIATION MAR 6-8: Annual Conference, Country Club Hotel, Lake Ozark MISSOURI HUNTING HERITAGE FEDERATION MAR 14: Spring Fling Shoot & Family Fun Day, Lake Lotawana Sportsman’s Club (9:00am 6:00pm) MAR 28-29: Youth Hunter Education Clinic, Baier’s Den Hunting Preserve, Peculiar; Steve Rulo (816) 987-3336 APR 11-12: Youth Hunter Education Clinic & Turkey Hunt, Lake Lotawana Sportsman’s Club MISSOURI NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION FUNDRAISING BANQUETS MAR 3: Current River Longbeards, MO Baptist Assembly, Van Buren; Delbert Dewolf (573) 323-4789

MAR 6: Stealth Gobblers, Elks Lodge, Warrensburg; David McCannon (660) 747-8260 MAR 6: Rocky Top Limbhangers, Armory, West Plains; Larry Lindeman (417) 256-0980 MAR 6: Parkville Gobblers, Athletic Complex, Parkville; John Shene (816) 365-2853 MAR 6: Warren County Strutters, American Legion, Warrenton; Amy Mergelmeyer (636) 221-1538 MAR 6: Osage Prairie Thunderin Toms, Eagles Lodge, Nevada; Bruce Rogers (417) 876-2521 MAR 7: Four Rivers, Knights of Columbus Hall, Washington; Eldo Meyer (573) 484-3102 MAR 7: Turkey Creek Longbeards, Briarbrook Country Club, Terry Greer (417) 434-6745 MAR 7: Mark Twain Forest Longspurs, Lions Club, Potosi; Tony Hollinsworth (573) 438-2219 MAR 7: Sho-Me, White River Banquet Hall, Springfield; Matthew Kramer (417) 839-6366 MAR 7: Young’s Creek Strutters, Nick & Noah’s, Centralia; Eddie Schultz (573) 682-1900 MAR 7: Platte Purchase, Knights of Columbus Hall, Saint Joseph; Edward Helsel (816) 596-0513 MAR 7: Yellow Creek Gobblers, Walsworth Community Building, Marceline; Dennis Paalhar (660) 537-3459 MAR 12: Bayou Strutters, Top of the Town Banquet Hall, East Prairie; Clinton Wolford (573) 225-9084 MAR 13: Lake of the Ozarks Chapter, Tri County Convention Center, Versailles; Kurt Heisler (573) 569-0550 MAR 13: Lake Show-Me Longbeards, VFW Post 4958, Memphis; Chris Comstock (660) 216-0634 MAR 13: Carman Springs Longbeards, Willow Springs R-4 Elementary Cafeteria, Willow Springs; Terry Newton (417) 469-2881 MAR 14: Heartland Gobblers American Legion, Poplar Bluff; Chuck Stewart Farms (573) 222-7182 MAR 14: Randolph County Longbeards, Saint Pius X Gymnasium, Moberly; Larry Terry (660) 651-8636 MAR 14: Nemo, American Legion, Palmyra; Travis Moore (573) 231-2859 MAR 14: Cooper County Limbhangers, Knights of Columbus Hall, Boonville MAR 20: Marshfield Full Strutters, Marshfield Buildings, Marshfield; Kenny Jones (417) 689-2104 MAR 20: Lake Area Longbeards, Old Kinderhook Resort, Camdenton; Charles McElyea (573) 2162769 MAR 20: Putnam County Chapter, Putnam County High School Commons, Unionville; Joe Ream (660) 341-0895 MAR 21: Big River Gobblers, Knights of Columbus Hall, House Springs; Rich Christopher (636) 2742574 MAR 21: Truman Lake Chapter, Benson Convention Center, Clinton; Thomas Paul (660) 351-0788 MAR 21: River Hills Thunderin Longbeards, Knights of Columbus Hall, Bloomsdale; Butch Stephens (573) 543-2165 MAR 21: Kirksville Ridge Runners, NEMO Fairgrounds, Kirksville; Josh Meyer (660) 665-4300 MAR 27: Pike County Twin River, Elks Lodge, Louisiana; Tim Brooks (573) 754-6692

MAR 27: Reynolds County, Reynolds County Fairgrounds, Redford; Gary Black (573) 637-9344 MAR 28: Saline County Strutters, Saline County Fairgrounds, Marshall; Joe Pycke (660) 631-3407 MAR 28: North Central Local, Elks Lodge, Chillicothe; Bill Wehrle (660) 646-4362 MAR 28: Summit Ridge Longbeards, Saint Andrews Catholic Church Gymnasium, Holts Summit; Jeff Demand (573) 289-0401 APR 4: Lewis County Strutters, Queen of Peace Parish, Ewing; Ron Richardson (660) 462-3640 APR 4: Platte City Longspurs, Platte County Fairgrounds, Tracy; Brandon Biddle (573) 719-6077 APR 10: Meramec Valley Strutters, Knights of Columbus Hall, Sullivan; Dennis Twyman (573) 468-5010 APR 10: Carroll County Longbeards, Rupe Center, Carrollton; Joe McCumber (660) 322-0801 APR 11: State Fair Strutters, MEC Building - Missouri State Fairgrounds, Sedalia; Charles Mattingly (660) 827-0758 APR 16: Mid-State, Stoney Creek Inn, Columbia; Jody Martin (573) 999-9024 APR 17: Green Hills, National Guard Armory, Trenton; Robin Chambers (660) 654-1192 APR 18: Hocomo Big Beards, Knights of Columbus Hall, Glascow; Gene Smith (660) 537-4667 APR 18: Muddy Creek Gobblers, Thiebaud Auditorium, Lamar; Jared Chestnut (417) 682-3767 APR 24: Spring River Toms, Memorial Hall, Carthage; Jerry Hartman (417) 793-0310 APR 24: Triple B Chapter - Buffalo Big Birds, Double Diamond Banquet Building, Buffalo; Travis Pierce (417) 840-8761 APR 25: Gentry County Gobblers, Tri Meadows, Conception Junction; Tim Runde (660) 937-2580 MISSOURI PARKS AND RECREATION ASSOCIATION FEB 3: TORO Maintenance Workshop, Central Maintenance District, Kansas City (8:00am) FEB 5: TORO Maintenance Workshop, Greene County Botanical Center - Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, Springfield (8:00am) FEB 24-27: Conference and Expo, Springfield FEB 24: Board Meeting, Springfield MISSOURI PRAIRIE FOUNDATION MAR 28: Grow Native! Plant Sale, Runge Conservation Nature Center, Jefferson City (10:00am - 2:00pm) MAR 31: Introduction to Missouri’s Raptors, Conservation Nature Center, Springfield APR 18: Annual Kansas City Native Plant Sales, City Market, Kansas City (8:00am - 1:00pm) APR 25: Annual Kansas City Native Plant Sales, City Market, Kansas City (8:00am - 1:00pm)

MISSOURI RIVER BIRD OBSERVATORY MAR 9: Bird Banding Demonstration, Birds-I-View, Jefferson City MISSOURI SMALLMOUTH ALLIANCE MAR 17: Monthly Meeting, American Legion, Saint Louis (7:00pm - 9:00pm) MAR 28: Missouri Ozarks Wide Sign Posting Blitz APR 11: Water Quality Monitoring Outing, Mineral Fork (9:00am); Tim Kirchhoff (636) 579-0126 APR 13: Water Quality Monitoring Outing, Glaize Creek, Barnhart (9:00am ); Tim Kirchhoff (636) 579-0126 APR 21: Monthly Meeting, American Legion, Saint Louis (7:00pm - 9:00pm) MISSOURI SPORT SHOOTING ASSOCIATION APR 4: Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet, American Legion, Columbia (2:00pm) MISSOURI WHITETAILS UNLIMITED MAR 7: Monroe City Area Chapter Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Monroe City MAR 7: Muddy Water Banquet, Knights of Columbus Hall, Old Monroe MAR 14: Southwest Missouri Chapter Banquet, Saint Mary’s Activity Center, Pierce City MAR 21: Miller County Chapter Banquet, Mary’s Home School Gymnasium, Eugene MAR 21: Audrain County Chapter Banquet, Elks Lodge, Mexico MAR 28: Long Branch Chapter Banquet, Macon County Expo Center, Macon APR 4: Big Bucks Chapter Banquet, Lions Club, Harrisburg APR 18: Pike County Twin Rivers Chapter Banquet, Pike County Fairgrounds, Bowling Green MULE DEER FOUNDATION APR 18: Ha Ha Tonka Chapter Banquet, Elks Lodge – CBO Event Center, Columbia (5:00pm); Matt Bentz (573) 207-3794 OPEN SPACE COUNCIL APR 25-26: Native Tree Planting, Queeny Park, Ballwin OZARK FLY FISHERS MAR 26: General Membership Meeting, Queeny Park, Ballwin(7:00pm) APR 23: General Membership Meeting, Queeny Park, Ballwin (7:00pm) OZARK WILDERNESS WATERWAYS CLUB MAR 14: Snake Saturday Parade, North Kansas City (8:30 am - 12:00pm) MAR 14: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30pm - 7:30pm) MAR 28: Blue River Cleanup, Lakeside Nature Center, Kansas City(8:00am - 12:00pm)

APR 11: Water Quality Testing, Ridge Trail, Kansas City (10:00am - 11:00am) APR 11: Potluck Dinner, Swope Park, Kansas City (6:30pm - 7:30pm) APR 11: Business Meeting, Swope Park, Kansas City (7:30pm - 9:00pm) APR 13: Dining Hall Cleanup, Camp Lake of the Woods - Swope Park (10:00am - 11:00am) POMME DE TERRE CHAPTER MUSKIES, INC. MAR 4-8: Saint Louis Sport Show MAR 28: Border War Tournament, Pomme de Terre Lake; Jim Ashton (314) 368-8927 APR 17-18: No Ice Challenge, Pomme de Terre Lake; George Donner (816) 678-1623 QUAIL FOREVER & PHEASANTS FOREVER MAR 7: West Central Annual Banquet, Elks Lodge, Harrisonville (5:30pm); Tom Lampe (816) 884-4862 MAR 7: Missouri State Habitat Convention, Courtyard by Marriott, Columbia (8:00am - 9:30pm); John Wallace (937) 459-8085 MAR 14: Missouri River Valley Chapter Banquet, Elks Lodge, Washington (5:00pm); Arvil Kappelmann (636) 239-4127, Larry Hanks (573) 237-2623, Terry Stricklin (573) 764-2398 or Bill Miller (636) 239-2481 MAR 21: Green Hills Banquet, Elks Lodge, Brookfield (5:00pm); Emily Creech (660) 621-0487 ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION MAR 7: Mid Missouri Big Game Banquet, Columbia; Adam Augustine (573) 397-2207 MAR 7: Missouri Ridge Big Game Banquet, Troy; Chris Kaimann (636) 775-3164 MAR 21: Southwest Missouri Big Game Banquet, Joplin; Rocky Swearingen (417) 438-4928 MAR 21: Pony Express Big Game Banquet, Saint Joseph; Michael Mooney (816) 232-9553 SAINT LOUIS AUDUBON SOCIETY MAR 7: Beginner Bird Walk, Forest Park, Saint Louis (7:30am - 10:00am) MAR 7: Woodcock /Owl Prowl, August A. Busch Memorial Area, Saint Charles (5:00pm - 8:00pm) MAR 14: Birding Field Trip, Horseshoe Lake State Park, Granite City, IL (8:00am - 5:00pm) MAR 21: Confluence Trash Bash, Saint Louis (8:00am - 5:00pm) MAR 26: Africa Program, Saint Louis County Library - Samuel C. Sachs Branch, Chesterfield (6:00pm 9:00pm) CFM EVENTS MAR 20-22: Annual Convention, Capitol Plaza Hotel, Jefferson City MAY 9: Kansas City Regional Event, Bass Pro Shops & Stoney Creek Inn, Independence

The Conservation Federation of Missouri represents Missourians for the conservation of natural resources and protection of our outdoor heritage.

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Dan Vogt of Whitetails Unlimited Wins Field Director of the Year

If you live in Missouri and are a serious deer hunter, then there’s a good chance you know Dan Vogt. If you don’t know Dan, he’s our regional director for Whitetails Unlimited, and was named the Field Director of the Year for the third time.

However, for Dan, it isn’t about the awards. It is about helping local chapters. Whether that is coordinating projects, or promoting education and conservation efforts in the state, Dan is always ready to help out.

“It is truthfully an honor to be recognized at a national level. However it is our amazing membership base around the state that should really be recognized. They are the ones who show their unwavering support day after day,” Dan said.

Dan’s fortunate to have a career with Whitetails Unlimited doing what he loves, which is encouraging conservation and participation in hunting.

His work also affords the opportunity to enjoy some spectacular hunts. So when Dan told me he had experienced the hunt of his life, I knew I had to hear about it.

The story wasn’t what I expected.

He didn’t tell me about a double drop tine booner closing inside 20 yards.

It wasn’t a story about a state record, or some big nasty freak. In fact, it wasn’t about antlers at all. The story of Dan’s best hunt ever was of his then 8 year old son, Jacob, killing his first deer.

Jacob Vogt is your average boy. He enjoys spending time with his daddy, going to school and playing video games. Deer hunting doesn’t consume him, yet, but since it is so important to his dad, Jacob has gravitated towards it. When he recalled to me the story of killing his first deer, a big healthy doe, there was excitement in his eyes, especially each time he looked up at his father as if to recon-

Dan and his son Jacob on a turkey hunt in 2012.

firm the admiration being bestowed.

Like many young folks, and quite a few of us older guys too, Jacob doesn’t like sitting still for long. So when Dan and Jacob decided to call it quits on their ground blind hunt, they figured their chances of success were over. But on the way back to the truck they jumped a group of deer from a ditch. They formulated a plan to sneak up on them and it worked.

“I was like 50/50 on whether or not I should take the shot, but I did, and I got her,” Jacob said.

Dan said it was really a pretty close shot and Jacob made it count. To young eyes 60 yards is a mile. Consider buck fever and shaking hands, and it’s easy to understand how the youngster was hesitant to pull the trigger.

“I was so excited because I shot and I thought right away that I got it.

I started calling all my family. I called grandma first because she’s the closest, just across the street,” Jacob said.

Dan said it was hard to put into words how much it meant to him to pass the tradition of hunting on to his son. Here’s a guy whose career

Jacob poses with his deer after a successful hunt with his dad.

is based on turning people into deer hunters and deer hunters into conservationists, but his ultimate reward was passing the torch to his own son.

“When I grow up I might work for my dad, maybe. If I’m not a professional swimmer,” Jacob said.

Well, whether or not Jacob ends up working for Whitetails Unlimited really doesn’t matter much. What matters is that at such a young age, he’s an advocate with a story to tell.

A story he’ll recount to his friends that may create a desire in them to venture into the deer woods. Hopefully, they’ll create their own story.

Brandon Butler Executive Director, CFM MIS S OURI

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agency news - department of conservation

MDC to Match $1.3 million in Federal Dollars to Help Missouri Landowners with Key Habitat Conservation

J. R. Flores, Missouri State Conservationist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (left) and Director of the Missouri Department of Conservation Bob Ziehmer (right) sign contracts that will provide more than one million dollars in federal funds to MDC for habitat conservation by Missouri private landowners. Photo credit: MDC.

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he Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recently announced that it will receive $1.3 million in federal grant monies from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help private landowners in Missouri improve grasslands, glades, and woodlands on their properties for both wildlife habitat and agriculture production.

As the Conservation Commission approves annual expenditure plans, MDC plans to match the federal grant monies over the next five years through its existing Private Lands Services program.

The $1.3 million in federal dollars was provided through the USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). The purpose of the RCPP is to further the conservation, 2 0

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restoration, and sustainable use of soil, water, wildlife, and related natural resources by providing cost-share and incentives to private landowners.

“The Missouri Department of Conservation has a proven track record of successfully implementing USDA conservation programs and we have brought millions in federal cost-share dollars to Missouri landowners,” said MDC Private Land Services Division Chief Bill White. “Our partnership with the USDA is a national model.”

MDC’s Private Land Services staff provides expert advice and assistance to more than 29,000 private landowners in Missouri each year to help integrate forest, fish and wildlife management with agriculture production to help landowners reach their land management goals. These services often

include financial assistance through cost-share grant monies from the Department and other sources.

White explained that the cost-share grant monies will be dedicated to enhancing grasslands in northern and western Missouri for both livestock grazing and wildlife such as quail, and will include MDC Quail Focus Areas and grassland Conservation Opportunity Areas. The funds will also be focused on restoring glade and woodland habitats in the Ozarks of southeastern Missouri through costshare funds and incentives for forest landowners.

“Quality of the land for both livestock and wildlife is one of our main concerns, and programs such as these that help us reach our goals are greatly appreciated,” said Dennis Puppe, president of the Harrison County Cattleman’s Association.

“We endorse the RCPP for glades and woodlands in southeast Missouri and offer to assist the Department of Conservation with regional outreach and education to promote healthy and sustainable woodlands,” said Jim Summers, executive director of the Missouri Forest and Woodland Association.

For more information on the Department’s Private Lands Services and cost-share-grant-funding opportunities, contact an MDC Regional Office or local MDC Private Land Conservationist. Find both online at mdc.mo.gov under LOCAL CONTACTS. Joe Jerek News Services Coordinator, MDC

agency news - department of conservation

Missouri Deer-Hunting Season Ends with Harvest of 260,552

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issouri’s 2014-2015 deer-hunting closed January 15 with the conclusion of the state’s archery season. The Missouri Department of Conservation reported that the total deer harvest for the current season was 260,552, which is 7,978 more than the 252,574 deer checked during the previous year.

Hunters checked 51,755 deer during the current archery season with top counties being Jefferson with 1,080, St. Louis with 1,063 and Franklin with 1,032. The harvest for the previous year’s deer archery season was 1,248 fewer at 50,507.

The 2014-2015 archery turkey season also closed January 15 with

a total of 2,587 birds checked compared to the previous year of 2,546 birds checked. Top counties were Greene with 64, Franklin with 60 and Callaway with 54.

The 2015-2016 archery deer and turkey season will run September 15 through January 15, excluding the November portion of deer season,

Nov. 14 through 24.

Conservation makes Missouri a great place to hunt deer and turkey.

For more information, go online to mdc.mo.gov.

Joe Jerek News Services Coordinator, MDC

Dates for the 2015-2016 firearms deer season are: Urban portion: October 9 - 12 Early youth portion: October 31 - November 1 November portion: November 14 - 24 Antlerless portion: November 25 - December 6 Alternative-methods portion: December 19 - 29 Late youth portion: January 2 - 3

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Honorariums Memorials

In memory of Leroy Korschgen

Kenneth & Jane Sadler - Columbia, MO, Dean Murphy - Jefferson City, MO, Tom Russell - Columbia, MO, Ann Allert - Columbia, MO,

Berry & JoAnn Azdell - Mexico, MO, Wayne & Linda Porath - Columbia, MO, Brian & Mary Lloyd - Columbia, MO, Jim & Rose Hochstatter - Parkville, MO, Terry & Jean Oberman - Kahoka, MO, Carl & Ann Korschgen - Columbia, MO, Robert Jacobson - Columbia, MO, Tom & Beth Bankhead - Fayette, MO, Nancy Brakhage - Columbia, MO, William Pilcher - Mexico, MO MIS S OURI

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agency news - department of conservation

MDC Seeks Public Input on Proposed Deer Hunting Regulation Changes

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he Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is seeking public input on proposed changes to the state’s deer hunting regulations for the 2016-2017 hunting season.

For the fall firearms deer season, MDC proposes: • Maintaining the current timing of the November portion but reducing the length from 11 days to nine days, • Expanding the late youth firearms weekend from two days to three days and having it begin the Friday after Thanksgiving instead of early January, • Reducing the length of the antlerless firearms portion from 12 days to three days and beginning it on the first Friday in December, and • Eliminating the urban zones portion.

For the fall archery deer and turkey season, MDC proposes: • Allowing crossbows as a legal method, and • Reducing the limit of antlered deer during the archery season from two to one.

MDC also proposes simplifying conservation area regulations and also wants public comment on permit fees for nonresidents regarding a possible increase, decrease, or no change in price.

The proposed regulation changes are a result of public input and MDC deer management research and practices.

During the summer of 2014, MDC gathered more than 4,000 public comments on deer management and possible regulation changes through open houses, online comments, letters and emails. MDC also surveyed many deer hunters regarding potential regulation changes. MDC staff will present final regulations recommendations to the Conservation Commission in late 2015.

MDC WELCOMES PUBLIC COMMENT To explain the proposed changes and gather public feedback, MDC will hold the following public meetings around the state from 5 to 8 p.m.: • March 3 – MDC Springfield Nature Center, 4601 S Nature Center Way, Springfield; 2 2

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• March 5 -- West Plains Civic Center, 110 St. Louis Street, West Plains; • March 10 – MDC Cape Girardeau Nature Center, 2289 County Park Drive, Cape Girardeau; • March 12 – MDC Northeast Regional Office, 3500 S. Baltimore, Kirksville; • March 16 – MDC Central Regional Office, 3500 E. Gans Road, Columbia; and • March 31 – MDC Northwest Regional Office, 701 James McCarthy Drive, Saint Joseph.

MDC also welcomes public comments online. To learn more about the proposed regulations, MDC’s deer management plan, past public comments, and to provide comment, visit the Department’s website at mdc.mo.gov/ node/28079.

Mail comments to: Missouri Department of Conservation, Attn: Policy Coordination, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102.

RATIONALE FOR REGULATION CHANGES MDC expanded the November portion of firearms deer season to 11 days in 1995 in response to a rapidly growing deer population in many parts of the state. Deer numbers in most parts of Missouri are now at or below desired levels.

According to MDC biologists, reducing the length of the November portion by two days will help increase those numbers.

The Department’s reasoning for changing the timing of the late youth portion from early January to the weekend after Thanksgiving is that it should increase youthhunter participation and success as a result of better deer activity and weather conditions. Adding the Friday after Thanksgiving will provide an additional hunting day when schools are closed.

MDC anticipates that reducing the length of the antlerless season from 12 days to three days will help increase deer numbers to more desirable levels. The antlerless portion of the firearms deer season was implemented in 1996 to increase the harvest of female deer, or does, in response to a rapidly growing deer population in many parts of the state.

The deer population in most of Missouri is currently at or below desired levels.

According to MDC, eliminating the urban zones portion of the firearms season is being considered because firearms hunting in urban zones is significantly limited by

city ordinances and safety concerns. As a result, this portion does not significantly lower deer numbers in areas where urban deer conflicts occur.

The department anticipates that allowing crossbows as a legal method during the archery deer and turkey season will help younger hunters enter the sport and also prolong participation for older hunters. MDC research shows that most deer hunters are in favor of allowing crossbows during the archery season and bow hunters are about equally divided on the topic.

Reducing the buck harvest during archery season from two to one per hunter will make hunters more selective and help more bucks reach older age-classes. Regulations allowing bow hunters to harvest two bucks were implemented in 1988 when there were fewer than 100,000 individuals with a permit to hunt deer during the archery season compared to more than 180,000 in 2013. Also, the harvest of bucks by bow hunters has nearly doubled from 11 percent of the total harvest in 2000 to 19 percent in 2013.

The Department anticipates that simplifying deer hunting regulations on conservation areas to archery only, archery and muzzleloader only, or archery and firearms will both increase hunter satisfaction and allow area managers to adjust regulations based on current deer numbers.

MDC permit fees for nonresident hunters are competitive with those of surrounding states and have remained the same since 2009.

Joe Jerek News Services Coordinator, MDC MDC is seeking public input on proposed deer hunting regulation changes involving firearms season lengths, use of crossbows, archery bag limits, regulations on conservation areas and non-resident permit fees. Photo credit: MDC.

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Dr. C.F. Luebbert Honored for Lifetime Achievement in Conservation

r. Charles F. Luebbert, a retired Tipton physician, was recently honored by the Conservation Foundation of Missouri Charitable Trust with their first ever presentation of The Ed Stegner Lifetime Achievement in Conservation Award.

A marble plaque denoting the honor was given to Dr. Luebbert in Tipton on Sunday, December 21, 2014 in recognition of over seven decades of volunteer conservation work.

“Doc” is the oldest and longest serving member of the Conservation Foundation’s Board of Trustees and is the only living member of the original Board which was established in 1971.

He served many years as the Foundation’s Chairman.

The Tipton osteopath is well known throughout mid-Missouri having established the Tipton Osteopathic Clinic and later the Luebbert Medical Center and serving on the Board of Still Osteopathic Hospital in Jefferson City. He retired in 1994 after 48 years of service to his patients and community but continued his conservation volunteer work.

“Doc” enjoys hunting, fishing and observing wildlife on his farmland, and does what he can to improve his land for wildlife. He was a found-

Presentation of the Ed Stegner Lifetime Achievement in Conservation Award to Dr. Luebbert. Pictured left to right: Charlie Davidson, Dr. Charles F. Luebbert, and Ike Lovan, Chairman of the Conservation Foundation.

ing member of the Tipton Farmers and Sportsmen Club and he is a past president of that 50-year old club.

He is also a past president of the Conservation Federation of Missouri (1971-1972), serving at a time when the Federation was leading efforts to expand Missouri’s fish, forest and wildlife programs.

The lifelong resident of Tipton loves central Missouri and says there is no better place in the world to live and raise children. “It is important”, he says, “that we do everything we

Douglas Tallamy, author of “Bringing Nature Home” will speak at 4 locations, no charge: March 21, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center 2:30 p.m. registration required; and KU, Lawrence KS, Woodruff Auditorium, 7 p.m., no registration March 28, Springfield Conservation Nature Center, 10:00 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. Google locations for more information.

Missouri Wildflowers Nursery

mowldflrs@socket.net www.mowildflowers.net 9814 Pleasant Hill Rd, Jefferson City MO 65109 573-496-3492, fax: 573-496-3003

You need our excellent catalog - by mail or online.

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can to preserve this great outdoor heritage.” Dr. Luebbert and his late wife Vi raised two children, Russell and Lynn (Brauer) of whom he is very proud.

The Ed Stegner Lifetime Achievement Award is the sole honor voted on by the Foundation Trustees and honors the memory of the late Ed Stegner, the long-time executive director of the Conservation Federation and Hall of Fame conservationist.

“Doc” and Ed were very good friends and companion conservationists.

Spicebush, Swallowtails and Other Yard Swag

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arch brings with it the first signs of spring and birds returning to their breeding grounds.

Open a window or venture outside early in the morning and the joyous sounds of the world waking up fills the air. Cardinals start welcoming the impending dawn with their rhythm intensifying “chew, chew, chew.” Soon to be followed by an entire chorus of birdsong beckoning in the breaking of dawn.

The landscape also starts to awaken with hints of vibrant hues. Shrubs are among some of the earliest blooming plants. They can add cover for birds and landscape color to your yard.

Shrubs also increase the diversity of insects and hence increase the number of bird species that visit your yard.

When evaluating the wildlife value of a shrub and subsequently how it will improve wildlife in your yard, there are a couple of things to consider— how prolific is its pollen and/or nectar for insects and birds? And is it a host plant for insects, especially caterpillars, which feed on the foliage? The better the shrub is at sustaining caterpillars and other invertebrates, on which birds are dependent for food sources, the better the shrub is for sustaining birds.

Early blooming shrubs are especially attractive as they chase away the winter blues and welcome early returning Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. Some great native early-blooming shrubs are: Spice Bush (Lindera benzoin)- An attractive shrub in its own right with an early bloom time of March, this shrub also hosts one of the most desirable butterflies and its equally coveted caterpillar- the Spicebush Swallowtail. Spicebush tolerates shade and can grow to a height of 6-14 ft. Its name comes from the spice fragrance emitted by the leaves and branches.

Both male and females plants are needed for berries. It appreciates moist

soil and some shade.

Golden Current (Ribes odoratum)This 4-6 ft tall, sun-loving, droughttolerant shrub begins blooming in April with golden trumpet-shaped flowers and a strong clove fragrance, attracting many early pollinators.

Delicious berries adorn the plant in late summer, which can be eaten straight off the bush or used in cooking. In the eastern US, members of this family of shrub can host up to 99 different species of caterpillars.

become dark blue berries loved by birds in late summer. Attractive red and purple fall foliage. Viburnums are host plants to many species of caterpillars, including the adorable Hummingbird Clearwing Moth.

Red Buckeye (Aesculus pavia)Another taller Missouri native that can top out at 12-15 ft and succeeds in sun to part shade locations. Bloom time is April to May with stunning, bright red panicles attractive to returning Rubythroated Hummingbirds. Red Buckeye begins to go dormant in late summer and produces shiny buckeyes in fall.

This shrub appreciates some moisture and does not like dry conditions.

Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)one of the most beloved of all Missouri native shrubs for its beauty and ability to thrive in various landscapes. Closely related to the spiraea family, its pink or white spring flowers appear in May or June and resemble those of spiraea. Exfoliating bark creates winter interest. It is also a valuable wildlife shrub, hosting up to 41 different species of caterpillars in the eastern US and loved by beetles that need large flat flowers for their landings- that often lack grace. This shrub can grow 8-9 ft tall and tolerates sun or shade.

Mary Nemecek

Birds need invertebrates like this spicebush swallowtail caterpillar to feed their young; insects like this need to feed on native plants. Want birds? Plant native plants. Photo credit: Mary Nemecek.

Rusty Blackhaw Viburnum (Viburnam rufidulum)- This Missouri native can get quite tall for a shrub at 12-15 ft and tolerates full to part sun locations. It blooms in April-May with large, white bloom clusters. These

Mary Nemecek is the Conservation Chair of Burroughs Audubon, a Missouri Master Naturalist and a CFM and Missouri Prairie Foundation member. Grow Native! is a native plant education and marketing program of the Missouri Prairie Foundation, an affiliate member of CFM. Visit www.grownative.org, Resource Guide, for a list of suppliers of native shrubs and other native plants, seeds, and services.

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New Tournament Circuit Set for Missouri High School Anglers

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issouri high school fishing clubs will have the opportunity to compete in a new bass tournament circuit beginning in March.

Teen Anglers, LLC. has established a circuit with three qualifying tournaments leading to a championship in June for all high school clubs in Missouri.

Teen Anglers has conformed to a set of rules compiled from the boating laws of the State of Missouri, the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) and Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) regulations, and standard rules set forth by the bass tournament industry. MSHSAA is administering bass fishing as an “emerging activity” for high schools throughout the state.

The three qualifying tournaments for the new circuit will be held March 28 at Lake of the Ozarks, April 11 at Stockton Lake and May 16 at Table Rock. The championship is slated for June 13-14 at a location to be announced later. Each team must fish a minimum of two tournaments to be eligible to qualify for the championship.

In accordance with MSHSAA rules, all high school students in grades 9-12 must have passed a MSHSAA physical, have a valid fishing license and be knowledgeable of fishing and boating regulations to be eligible for the tournaments. All participants must be supervised by a boat captain. A school sponsor or designated fishing advisor for the school district must have assured compliance with all of the MSHSAA requirements for all volunteer boat captains being used in an event.

For more information on the tournament rules and a registration form, visit www.teenanglers.net. MSHSAA rules for Missouri high school anglers and boat captains are available at www.mshsaa.org/Activities/Info/BassFishing.aspx. Missouri boating safety laws can be found at www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/MSHPWeb/WaterPatrol.

Visit www.mdc.mo.gov for MDC fishing regulations.

John Neporadny

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Nature Conservancy Protects Prairie Wetland in Western Missouri

Project expands Marmaton River Bottoms Prairie Wetland, which provides refuge for over 120 bird species and almost 250 native flower species.

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he Nature Conservancy’s Marmaton River Bottoms Prairie Wetland has grown to 587 acres with the addition of an additional 80 acres, purchased by the Conservancy this month to ensure the prairie system will remain intact.

The Nature Conservancy managed the 80 acres for 30 years through an agreement with owner Marjorie Pursley. Following her death, the Conservancy purchased the property, honoring Ms. Pursley’s wish that the land continue to be managed as native habitat for birds and other wildlife.

Double-breasted cormorant. Photo credit: Flickr user Nikon66 (Mark Schuver).

“Ms. Pursley asked the Conservancy for help because she loved the property and knew it was special. Marmaton River Bottoms provides a rare and remarkable glimpse into an almost-lost chapter of our natural history,” said Doug Ladd, the Conservancy’s Missouri director of conservation.

Marmaton contains the largest tract of unplowed wet prairie remaining in Missouri and is characterized by open woodlands, marshes, sloughs, and one of the state’s largest concentrations of prairie wetlands. The property is bordered to the east by the Marmaton River.

The Conservancy identified these lands as critical to protect because wet prairie is one of the rarest grassland types on Earth and provides vital wildlife habitat.

Additionally, prairie wetlands hold soil and water in place, reducing flooding, erosion, and drought.

Marmaton is open to the public.

The site offers stunning scenery and

some of the best birdwatching in the state. Birds found at the preserve include 11 duck species, bald eagles, snipes, sandpipers, double-breasted cormorants, and grebes. In the spring and summer, an assortment of wildflowers are in bloom, including swamp milkweed, prairie ironweed, willow aster, and marsh elder. For information about visiting Marmaton River Bottoms Prairie Wetland, visit nature.org/Marmaton.

Amy Hepler Welch Operations & Marketing Coordinator The Nature Conservancy The Nature Conservancy is a leading conservation organization working around the world to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. The Conservancy and its more than 1 million members have protected nearly 120 million acres worldwide.

Visit The Nature Conservancy on the Web at www.nature.org.

Open woodlands with a native grass understory at Marmaton River Bottoms Prairie Wetland. Photo credit: Dale Blevins.

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C o n s e r v a t i o n F e d e r a t i o n o f M i s s o u r i A F F I L IATES Anglers of Missouri, Inc. Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives Audubon Society of Missouri Bass-Hole Bassmasters of Missouri, Inc. Big Game Hunters, Inc. Burroughs Audubon Society of Greater Kansas City Capital City Fly Fishers Central Missouri Chapter Safari Club International Chesterfield Citizens Committee for the Environment Deer Creek Sportsman’s Club, Inc. Festus-Crystal City Conservation Club Forest and Woodland Association of Missouri Friends of Rock Bridge Memorial State Park Greenway Network, Inc. Heaven’s Anglers Jefferson County Coon Hunters, Inc. Katy Land Trust Meramec Area Sportsman Association Mid Missouri Outdoor Dream Mid Missouri Trout Unlimited Midwest Diving Council Mississippi Valley Duck Hunters Association Missouri Association of Meat Processors Missouri Atlatl Association Missouri BASS Federation Nation Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative

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Missouri Bow Hunters Association Missouri Chapter of the American Fisheries Society Missouri Chapter of the Wildlife Society Missouri Chapter Soil & Water Conservation Society Missouri Conservation Agents Association Missouri Conservation Pioneers Missouri Consulting Foresters Association Missouri Delta Waterfowl Missouri Ducks Unlimited State Council Missouri Forest Products Association Missouri Grouse Chapter of QUWF Missouri Hunter Education Instructors Association Missouri Hunting Heritage Federation, Inc. Missouri National Wild Turkey Federation Missouri Native Seed Association Missouri Parks & Recreation Association Missouri Parks Association Missouri Prairie Foundation Missouri River Bird Observatory Missouri Smallmouth Alliance Missouri Sport Shooting Association Missouri State Campers Association Missouri State Chapter of the Quality Deer Management Association Missouri State University Bull Shoals Field Station Missouri Taxidermist Association

Missouri Trappers Association Missouri Trout Fishermen’s Association Missouri Whitetails Unlimited Mule Deer Foundation North Side Division Conservation Federation Open Space Council of the Saint Louis Region Ozark Fly Fishers, Inc. Ozark Regional Land Trust Ozark Wilderness Waterways Club Ozarks Water Watchers Perry County Sportsman Club Pomme de Terre Chapter Muskies, Inc. Quail & Upland Wildlife Federation, Inc. Quail Forever & Pheasants Forever River Bluffs Audubon Society Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation South Side Division Conservation Federation Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers St. Louis Audubon Society Tipton Farmers & Sportsman’s Club Troutbusters of Missouri United Bow Hunters of Missouri Walnut Council & Other Fine Hardwoods Wecomo Sportsman’s Club Wild Elk Institute of Missouri Windsor Lake Rod & Gun Club

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Cooking in the Outdoors

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hat’s cooking? Well let’s hope it’s something tasteful. There is nothing worse than coming into camp after a long day of hunting or fishing, you’re tired, hungry and just want a hearty meal.

Then you realize the only edible food is ramen noodles or stale granola bars.

Most of us have been there far too often, so if this situation sounds all too familiar you might want to tune in. I’ll show you how to change that familiar scenario into something a bit more appetizing.

I would like to introduce you to my friend, Camp Chef. No, I’m not referring to uncle Joe who

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burns the Dutch oven potatoes each year at deer camp. I’m talking about the guys who make the cooking gear that changes any outdoor menu into something you actually look forward to.

From the backcountry to the back patio, I would like to show you how Camp Chef is the way to cook outdoors.

No matter how your camp looks, the outdoor kitchen should be a vital aspect of the layout because, let’s face it, you can’t control the weather or the fishing but you can control the way you eat. So when all else fails at least you have a tasty meal to look forward to.

Camp Chef stoves are powerful, portable, and versatile. This means they are ready to go whenever you are. Plus, it enables you to cook (not just boil) a delicious, hot meal with ease.

If you would rather keep things a bit more traditional, try cooking with a Dutch oven. A bit different than the drive-through orders we are so accustomed to today, Dutch oven cooking is usually done with charcoal briquettes, over an open fire or on a Camp Chef stove. There isn’t much you can’t cook in a Dutch oven, another reason they are so good at the campsite.

After you have spent a week hunting or fishing, let’s hope you’re ready to fill your freezer. But what do you do with all that meat? Camp Chef can help you with that.

Smoking meat is a great way to add and preserve natural flavors that cannot be experienced any other way. Remember how you were the most popular guy in camp when you limited out all three days? Now you can be the most popular guy in the neighborhood as your limit is smoking on the back patio. So don’t be hesitant because the process can be very simple.

Camp Chef’s DLX Pellet Grill is a personal favorite and the most user friendly. The engineers at Camp Chef added several features to the pellet grill that eliminate annoying issues often associated with low and slow barbecue. For example, it has controls that automatically maintain desired temperatures and a patented ash cleanout system for minimal clean up. But, no matter which Camp Chef smoker you choose, you will soon become satisfied with the results you can achieve. I’ll just promise you this; your taste buds will thank you.

Next time you’re cooking in the backcountry or on the back patio just remember, Camp Chef is the way to cook outdoors.

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agency news - department of natural resources

The Value of Water and State Water Planning

Water is everything! We know this to be true. Water is the lifeblood to our health and well-being. It is essential to nature and wildlife populations.

It provides us with numerous recreational opportunities for our enjoyment and sustains a vibrant economy.

Missourians have a long, rich history of supporting conservation efforts and protecting our water resources. From Ozark springs and streams to our great rivers, we understand the connection between protecting our Missouri waters and protecting our Missouri way of life.

Missouri’s thousands of miles of rivers, streams and lakes, along with underground aquifers, supply our state’s 6 million residents with clean water to drink. Those same water resources support Missouri’s $9 billion agricultural industry, as well as our cities, towns and other industries that employ Missourians. Healthy water resources also play a crucial role in supporting hunting, fishing, boating and other outdoor recreation, which comprise part of a $13 billion outdoor economy fueled by Missouri’s natural resources.

This critical respect for our waters is the reason Americans continue to strongly value the importance of clean water and ensure it is given the highest environmental priority for our nation.

Protecting Missouri’s water quality including our drinking water and our lakes, streams and rivers has always been a priority to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

New stresses to our water resources are a constant threat. Increasing development from sprawling urban and suburban centers, energy development 3 2

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needs, increased mining, the need for increased agricultural production to feed a growing human population and a changing climate all threaten our water resources. These endless threats are the reason it remains imperative to continue citizen engagement and proper planning.

Missouri’s existing water plan is now outdated and does not address future threats from developing technologies such as hydrofracking and other water-intensive energy extraction, suburban growth and increased need for agriculture. Our current plan also does not account for the potential

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has lead Missouri’s state water planning efforts since 1937. Learn how you can become involved and help the department complete the latest edition of the State Water Plan for Missouri by visiting dnr.mo.gov. Photo credit: MoDNR40 Photo Contest submitted

by Mary White.

The department’s Missouri Geological Survey and Water Resources staff completed the first State Water Plan back in 1937. Over the years, the department has completed numerous state water plans in addition to undertaken studies, collected and analyzed data, held public meetings and conferences, produced reports, plans and recommendations to address and fulfill Missouri’s water monitoring, supply and use analysis, and planning obligations. And yet, the department recognizes much work remains to be done.

of increased water diversions from upriver states on the Missouri River. The department recently began the process to update and complete a comprehensive State Water Plan for Missouri. As you can imagine, it’s not a quick and easy task. The process typically takes 2 to 5 years to complete and requires extensive involvement from all of Missouri’s water users, our stakeholders.

The department will work with a consultant to facilitate the discussions that will help characterize Missouri’s water resources including surface and groundwater, quality and quantity. In

agency news - department of natural resources addition, we will need to quantitatively define how those water resources are currently used – are they underutilized, overutilitized or sustainably utilized.

We’ll need to define all water users, their current needs, predict or model their future needs and ensure all of their needs are met. Where challenges or potential shortfalls are identified, the plan will outline options to address water resource needs, costs and potential projects.

Missouri’s landscapes and communities are as diverse as its water supplies. No one understands the nature of their water supply better than the local citizens that use the water – from

industries that create jobs to streams and lakes that bring in tourists. The department and many regional partners have joined together to address local water concerns. Together, regional water plans have been created to establish more reliable and resilient water supplies to meet the regional needs of citizens, farmers, businesses and industries across Missouri.

The department’s Our Missouri Waters expands on partnering efforts like those created within regional water plans. Our Missouri Waters establishes an ongoing framework, which ensures local engagement, information sharing and empowerment, so local citizens can

act with partners’ support to ensure clean and abundant water for generations to come. We all share a common goal of protecting our water resources – because, they belong to all of us. That’s why it’s important for everyone to play a part. We hope you will join with us and lend your voice to the planning and protection of Missouri’s precious water resources.

To learn more, visit the department’s website at dnr.mo.gov or call 800-3614827.

Todd Sampsell Deputy Director, DNR

Spotlight on Missouri State Parks – Trout Season in Missouri State Parks

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issouri is blessed to have three majestic state parks available to share these traditions with friends and families of all ages. The spring-fed, pristine waters flowing through these three trout parks provide the essential quality required for trout to thrive for fisherman to enjoy. Rainbow trout fishing seasons begins March 1 and runs through Oct. 31 at Roaring River State Park near Cassville, Bennett Spring State Park near Lebanon and Montauk State Park near Salem.

Not an avid fly fisherman, no worries. A trout school, offered by the concessionaire at Bennett Spring State Park, is designed for the beginner and experienced trout fisherman or woman

alike. The certified instructors have been thoroughly trained in the most modern teaching methods and have demonstrated his or her ability to teach in a friendly and professional manner. Jim Rogers, the school director, has been fly fishing for more than 50 years and began teaching in 1975. To learn more about the school, visit jimrogersflyschool.com.

Missouri State Parks hopes you will find time this trout season to step outside and enjoy one of Missouri’s three trout parks. Once you have experienced the rainbow trout pulling on your line followed by the calm patience it requires reeling in that prize-winning catch, you’ll be hooked.

Trout season in Missouri State Parks is a cooperative effort of the Department of

Montauk State Park, located in Salem, is one of three state parks that offer premier trout fishing. The pristine water and natural surroundings of the Current River contains both rainbow and brown trout and provides an excellent background for trout fishing. Photo credit: DNR

Natural Resources, which manages state parks, and the Department of Conservation, which operates the hatcheries and stocks the streams with trout. To learn

more these three trout parks visit mostateparks.com.

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Passion for the Outdoors

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t’s a crisp, cool morning in the height of summer. The sun has risen and is already threatening another scorching day. I’m one of the first risers, but not the first riser; Grandma’s already out on the screened-in porch with a steaming cup of coffee. I step out onto the porch, the green, grass-like carpet is rough on my bare feet. I take a seat next to her in a metal lawn chair and take in the scene. The porch overlooks the rolling hills of the Ozark Mountains and the smooth water of Table Rock Lake. I follow the gaze of my Grandma to a tree a couple of yards from the porch. Hanging from the tree is a hummingbird feeder and buzzing around the feeder is not just one, but three Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. They zip and dive while chasing each other around the tree, so close that you can hear their wings beat in the otherwise silent dawn. Finally, one wins and takes his place on the feeder, where he drinks until his heart’s content. At this point Grandma looks over at me, smiles and says, “Let’s bake some cookies!”

Mornings similar to this were not

Mikenzie Hart and her grandma at Table Rock Lake.

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unusual at our family cabin. My grandma’s two passions in life were bird watching and spoiling her family.

It became a ritual to sit on the porch, enjoying the early morning wildlife while drinking coffee and eating freshly baked chocolate chip cookies.

Fortunately, my childhood exploration of the outdoors reaches beyond the screened-in porch of our cabin. My family and I would spend long summer days playing water sports and lounging on our dock. My sister and I could ride inner-tubes for hours, battling it out to see who could hold on the longest. At age eight, I learned how to water-ski on a pair of wooden Snoopy skis, with Coach Mom cheering me on. Beyond the water, my family loved to camp and hike. We owned a pop-up camper that we would haul all the way out to the Rockies for a week of hiking and sightseeing. In the evenings we’d sit by the campfire, listening to my dad play his harmonica. Occasionally, he would stop playing and say, “Do you hear that hoot owl?” or simply, “The coyotes are out tonight.”

In my twenty-some years of life, these memories are exceptional because two special things were brought together: nature and family.

When my mom, sister, dad, or grandma shared the joy they received from being outdoors, that joy stuck with me, and shaped the person I am today.

Currently, I’m in college at the University of Missouri, studying Fisheries and Wildlife with the hope of starting a career in wildlife conservation or education. During my second semester in Fisheries and Wildlife I took an Ornithology class that reignited my grandma’s passion for birds in me. I joined the Mizzou Raptor Rehabilitation Project. There I learned to handle and care for captive birds of prey.

Last summer I had the opportunity

Mikenzie mist netting with her ornithology class.

to intern at the American Bald Eagle Foundation in Alaska. That experience enabeled me to share my knowledge of raptors with hundreds of people. I’m currently interning at the Conservation Federation of Missouri, and this summer I will be working as a field technician on an Ovenbird and Acadian Flycatcher habitat study.

All of these experiences and memories made me realize that, yes, the beauty of nature is enticing in itself, but the real connection and passion for nature spawns from experiencing that beauty with your loved ones. That’s what I hope to do; spark the same enthusiasm for nature in others that my grandma sparked in me. How am I doing so far?

Mikenzie Hart CLC Student CFM Intern

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Missouri Shooting Teams Receive Grant Funding

he MidwayUSA Foundation has wrapped up another successful grant cycle and 48 youth shooting teams across Missouri have received funds, totaling over $82,000. The money can be used for team expenses, such as ammunition, targets, competition fees, travel, uniforms and more. Grants are provided through the Team Endowment Account Program, offered by the MidwayUSA Foundation.

The MidwayUSA Foundation, located in Columbia, Missouri, is a public charity, founded by Larry and Brenda Potterfield, working to sustain the shooting sports industry by providing permanent funding to youth shooting teams.

They can grow their Team Endowment Account through soliciting private donations, which are currently matched 1:1, earnings, and conducting fundraisers.

Currently, 206 shooting teams in Missouri, at the high school and college level, have active Team Endowment Accounts. Funds in those accounts total nearly $5 million, combined. Teams with a balance in their Team Endowment Account are eligible to apply for a grant once per year by completing the MidwayUSA Foundation grant application. Grant deadlines are June 15 and December 15 and teams can

receive up to 5% of their account balance. This program is offered to youth shooting teams across the nation. In fact, the total payout for this grant cycle was over $1.4 million to 475 shooting teams, the largest grant cycle to date for the Foundation.

Missouri teams that are interested in opening an account or receiving fundraising items can contact the MidwayUSA Foundation by visiting www. midwayusafoundation.org or calling 1-877-375-4570.

You can also donate to the shooting team of your choice by visiting www.midwayusafoundation.org/donate and 100% of your donation will benefit the team and is tax deductible.

Dani Farris MidwayUSA Foundation, Inc. dfarris@midwayusafoundation.org

The MidwayUSA Foundation supports shooting teams of all disciplines, including shotgun, rifle, air rifle, pistol, air pistol, high power rifle and blackpowder at the high school and college level. Photo credit: MidwayUSA Foundation.

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1. RULES: The following rules for the tournament will be used. These rules will be interpreted solely by the Tournament Officials, and all decisions will be final.

2. ELIGIBILITY: All individuals, 18 years of age or older, who paid entry fee. Individuals under 18 years of age must be accompanied by parent or guardian. Need not be a member of B.A.S.S. or Mo. B.A.S.S. Nation.

3. ENTRY FEE: $100 per boat, which includes $10 into Big Bass Pool. Entries will be accepted at Harbor Marina, Pomme de Terre Lake, between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., April 19, 2015.

4. HEADQUARTERS & TIMES: Lighthouse/Harbor Marina. Fishing times are 7:00 a.m. (safe light) to 3:00 p.m. Daylight Savings Time, Sunday, April 19, 2015.

5. LIVE-WELL CHECK: ALL entries must participate in live-well checks.

6. DEPARTURE: Will be in sequence in which entry fees are received.

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7. TACKLE AND EQUIPMENT: Only artificial baits or lures may be used. Pork style baits are allowed. No trolling. All bass must be caught on rod and reel during tournament hours.

8. BOATS AND EQUIPMENT: Any boat 14 feet or longer will be accepted if powered by an engine of 10 horsepower or more. Boats must be equipped with functional, aerated live-well. Boats may not be trailered during tournament hours. Boats may not have motors which exceed the horsepower rating or BIA rating plate on boat. All Missouri Water Patrol laws and regulations apply.

9. SAFETY AND SPORTSMANSHIP: Safe boating and fishing practices must be observed. Life jackets must be worn when the combustion engine is running and in gear, Kill switches with lanyards are required and subject to testing at takeoff. All Missouri Department of Conservation laws and regulations shall apply.

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10. PERMITTED FISHING LOCATIONS: Anywhere on the tournament lake, except within fifty (50) yards of a public dock that dispenses boat gas, another contestant’s boat at anchor, or the take-off cove.

11. SCORING: Largemouth Bass, Kentucky Bass and Smallmouth Bass will be counted. Total stringer weight will determine place. Any bass under the thirteen (13) inch Pomme De Terre lake limit presented for weigh-in will cause a one (1) pound penalty to be subtracted from the total weight for that day, plus the loss of the short fish. Any bass dead when presented for weigh-in (as determined by Tournament Officials) will cause a 0.25 lb. to be subtracted from total stringer weight for that day. Five (5) fish per boat may be weighed in and no more than five (5) fish may be kept in the livewell at any time. Any frozen, iced or mangled fish presented for weigh-in shall result in immediate disqualification.

THE GATOR GRIP tournament ruler shall be the official measuring device.

12. TRUTH VERIFICATION: Each contestant shall be subject to a truth verification test. Anyone failing to pass test will be disqualified. Anyone refusing to such test shall be disqualified. Anyone that has refused to take or failed a truth verification test will not be allowed to participate.

13. TIES: Ties will be broken by earliest starting position.

14. CHECK-IN LATE PENALTY: One (1) pound per minute, up to ten (10) minutes, then disqualification.

NO EXCUSES. All participants must check in at official timer at end of courtesy dock of ramp.

15. TOURNAMENT CANCELLATION: If the tournament is cancelled due to reasons of safety on Sunday, April 19, 2015, the entry fees will be refunded.

NO REFUNDS WILL BE MADE FOR ANY OTHER REASON. 16. The Tournament Committee reserves the right to not allow entry for any reason.

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In Pursuit of Missouri’s Winter Trout

gray mist hung over the river as intermittent snow hissed into the darkened waters of the White River section of Lake Taneycomo. It was strikingly beautiful, but the first hour provided only casting practice as a chilly breeze urged a return to the parking lot for the goose down vest. Fish surely know when your concentration is waning and hands have morphed into icicles.

The strike was subtle. The yellow Crackleback fly simply stopped.

Despite a slowed reaction, the lift of the rod immediately telegraphed the message, “Big fish on!” before the behemoth ripped line from the reel in a downstream flight for deeper water.

Photo credit: Terry & Roxanne Wilson.

A scramble for shallow-water footing and a race downstream enabled gathering the fly line, but the rod tip throbbed again as the unseen fish dug for the deep edge of a deadfall. Backing once again pointed toward the escaping fish. Finally, steady reeling produced a sighting, then another, and one final dash that revealed more heart than strength.

After what seemed an eternity twentyeight inches of rainbow trout lay gasping on the gravel. The memory of this late winter day is golden and begs returning there often.

Despite being named “Lake” Taneycomo the first four miles downstream from Table Rock Dam behaves like a river and much of it is easily waded on low water.

Flies presented along current seams (the divergence of two currents of

differing speeds) can produce great action. Fishing downstream from the first island requires either shorebound casting or watercraft even on low water. Taneycomo is big but it’s loaded with rocky obstructions capable of destroying boats and motors. Boating anglers are advised to schedule one or more guided trips before venturing out on their own. Fishing supplies, advice, and excellent guides are available at River Run Outfitters located just a few double hauls from the water on state Highway 165. Proprietors Stan and Carolyn Parker and their guides operate state-of-the-art drift boats as skilled boat handlers and experienced, knowledgeable fly fishers. To schedule either a wading or boat-guided trip call them toll free at (877) 699-3474.

There’s always a “hot” fly pattern at Taneycomo but staples like Cracklebacks, woolly buggers, soft hackles, sowbug and scud patterns are effective. Floating line handles low water in the White River section of Taneycomo but when a generator is running or when fishing the lower lake areas, sink-tip or even full-sinking lines can be helpful. Table Rock Dam to Fall Creek, a distance of four miles, is restricted to artificial lures only with a slot limit. These regulations are well posted at popular entrance points.

As a tailwater trout fishery, arguably one of the very finest, water fluctuations can be dramatic and dangerous. Too many tempt fate by remaining in the river after the horn at the dam blares its warning. Seeking higher ground immediately is the only prudent choice.

Flies are the only lures permitted during catch and release season. A fly is defined by the Missouri Wildlife Code as an artificial lure constructed on a single hook using any material except soft plastic, natural, or scented baits.

In winter the intense crowds of opening day and summer weekends have largely dissipated. While solitude remains elusive, anglers often have sections of stream to themselves.

Lodging and campgrounds remain open and many area eateries motels, and fly shops are open for business.

At Bennett Spring, for example, flies, equipment needs, and advice is available at Reading’s Fly Shop (417) 588-4334 located on highway 64 just a couple miles away and at Larry’s Sporting Goods (417) 532-8678 just up the hill from the park boundary.

Subaquatic mayflies, caddis larva and pupae make up the bulk of the trout’s diet. Pheasant tail nymphs and soft hackle patterns in sizes 14 through 20 can be the ticket to success. Dry fly aficionados can imitate the reliable midge hatches with sizes 20 through 24 flies in cream and dun (gray). Adult caddis also take fish in sizes 16 and 18 with dun colored bodies that match most of the naturals. Soft-action 3 or 4 weight rods and double-taper lines can enhance the delicate presentations.

Finer diameter tippets and extended leaders of 10 to 12 feet might also help induce rises.

The infancy of 2015 beckons you to piece together your favorite rod and enjoy the mid-winter pursuit of southern Missouri’s trout. The fish are abundant and the opportunities diverse.

Terry and Roxanne Wilson terrywil@windstream.net

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Life After CLC - Where Are You Now? Kat Dockery:

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rowing up on a small farm near Clarksville, Mo, the outdoors were an integral part of Kat Dockery’s life.

Whether it was bailing hay, helping her father’s commercial fishing business on the Mississippi, camping on sandbars, or selling vegetables from her garden to supplement her toy collection, Kat learned to appreciate the outdoors through experience.

Being so closely tied to the land, this appreciation became a core value that would help shape the rest of her life.

In high school, Kat’s guidance counselor and parents recognized her affinity for nature, and, according to her, had the foresight to introduce her to the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Conservation Honors Program.

“An affection for the outdoors had always been in me, but it was during this time that I realized how important it (the outdoors) was to me,” said Kat. Graduating from the Conservation Honors Program, she first attended the Conservation Federation of Missouri’s (CFM) Conservation Leadership Corps (CLC) as a junior in high school. For the next six years, she didn’t miss a convention.

The CFM convention annually produces legislative resolutions put forth by students, which have a real and lasting impact on Missouri’s landscape. While this held true while Kat attended CLC, it was not the legislative aspect that drove Kat to return each year. It was the relationships and encouragement she received that kept her involved year after year and had the longest lasting impact on her.

“Youth, particularly females, are at a formative stage in their

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lives from juniors in high school to seniors in college. A little encouragement, and even just one or two positive examples of individuals who are involved in conservation, can make a world of difference for them,” said Kat.

Kat knows how critical these interactions can be, because it was at a convention that she met individuals who would positively change her life. “There were several older CFM board members who reached out to me and encouraged me to keep involved. When I spoke to them, I could tell how passionate they were about the outdoors,” said Kat. “They spoke with me about the career I could have in conservation and the impact I could make. That was an eye opener to me; prior to that, I thought conservation was just a hobby. After speaking with them, I learned that one could be part of the conservation community and make a profession out of it.”

In 2010, Kat graduated from Webster University with a Masters Degree in Communication. Follow-

ing further encouragement of CFM board members and mentors, she started working for the Open Space Council of the St. Louis Region as a part-time employee. Now, having been promoted to the executive director of the Open Spaces Council, Kat continues to work conserving and preserving land and water resources in the St. Louis region. In her role as executive director, Kat also represents a demographic in St. Louis business leadership that she hopes to grow; women leading organizations.

“If young girls don’t see examples of women in conservation, or see only a very few, it can be difficult for them to envision themselves in this line of work. Young women must be encouraged and invited to be involved with conservation professions. If not, they may not have the confidence to pursue those careers.”

Now, as a board member of CFM, she continues to be involved with CLC, encouraging young women and minorities to become involved in Missouri’s outdoors. “The CLC provides exposure and opportunity for young people to get involved in a lifetime of work in the great outdoors. So many people invested time and money in me because they believed I could do something good for the outdoors. Now it is my turn to invest in the next generation, particularly those who have not historically had a strong presence in the field. My goal is to encourage them to step up and become the new face of conservation.”

Rehan Nana Deputy Director, CFM

Member’s Memories

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Why I Became a Life Member of CFM Jamie Barton: I’ve been a hunter and an outdoor enthusiast since I was little. When I was young, I never gave much thought to things that were going on more than a few miles from where I grew up or hunted. Like most kids, I was in my own world and nothing else mattered. As I grew up, I found myself paying more attention to and caring much more about political activities in Jefferson City and Washington, D.C. This includes legislation that hurts or harms the fish, forest or wildlife resources of Missouri.

I’ve been a member of CFM for several years. CFM has always done an exceptional job of keeping me informed about legislation that could be hurtful to the wildlife resources that I cherish. Last year I felt a threat like never before and wanted to do more. It was time for me to put my money where my heart was and make more of a contribution.

Thank you CFM, for keeping me informed.

Jamie Barton Life Member, CFM

New Lifetime Members since the last issue.

Jamie Barton, Portland

Marlin Fiola, Kansas City

Dennis Williams, Mission Hills, KS

— 218 Life Members and growing —

To see the full list go to: http://confedmo.org/about/lifetime-members-2/ 4 2

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If there are any errors in your name and address, if you’ve moved from this address, or if you plan to move, please notify us at Missouri Wildlife, 728 W. Main, Jefferson City, MO 65101 or call (800) 575-2322.

Visit our website: www.confedmo.org